which are all too-familiar in many parts of Hong Kong. The
Light Rail System with its supporting feeder bus services in a
dedicated Transit Service Area was explained to and discussed
with the Tuen Mun and Yuen Long District Boards at the time two
years ago and received their support. It was on this basis and
with this community support that the KCRC undertook to
construct and operate the LRT system : The Corporation is now
contracted to build the system, the first phase of which is due
to
be completed by mid-1988. Thus, the LRT has become an
integral part of the transport infrastructure of Tuen Mun New
Town and the North-western New Territories. With a carrying
capacity which is capable of meeting demand well into the next
century, it is an investment not only for the present but the
long-term future as well. It is in essence a visible form of
Government's commitment to the development of the North-west.
4.
I should perhaps take the opportunity to explain the
concept of the Transit Service Area, which is intended to cover
the whole of the Tuen Mun District and that part of the Yuen
Long District west of the eastern end of Yuen Long town.
Within the Transit Service Area, public transport services will
be fully integrated, with the LRT functioning as the backbone
and other modes playing a complementary role. I am aware that
concern has been expressed in some
that as the LRT
quarters
will be the only mass carrier in the Transit Service Area,
people will be left with no choice if KCRC were
choice if KCRC were to charge very